Aero Contractors, one of Nigeria’s oldest airlines, has disclosed that it refunded more than N257.1 million to passengers within an eight-month period, reflecting the growing challenges in the nation’s aviation sector. The refunds were primarily due to flight cancellations, schedule disruptions, and operational challenges that affected the airline’s ability to deliver seamless services.
Data obtained from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) revealed that between January and August 2025, the airline processed a total of 21,732 refund requests. The refunds stemmed from multiple complaints lodged by passengers who were either unable to travel as planned or whose flights were significantly delayed, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
The breakdown of the data shows that Aero Contractors is among the top Nigerian airlines most affected by operational disruptions in recent times. Industry analysts attribute this trend to the persistent shortage of aviation fuel, high cost of operations, and maintenance challenges facing domestic carriers. These issues have often left airlines struggling to keep up with scheduled flights, with passengers bearing the brunt through cancellations and last-minute changes.
According to the NCAA’s consumer protection department, Aero Contractors’ refund record highlights both the scale of operational difficulties and the airline’s attempt to comply with regulatory requirements by ensuring affected passengers are compensated. The regulator noted that despite the financial burden of refunds, airlines are mandated under Nigerian aviation law to provide redress for service failures.
Industry experts have raised concerns that the rising number of refunds across Nigerian airlines indicates deeper systemic issues threatening the stability of the domestic aviation sector. They warn that unless urgent measures are taken to address fuel scarcity, forex challenges, and infrastructure deficits, airlines may continue to suffer financial losses, while passengers endure disruptions.
Aero Contractors, which has been operating for over six decades, has in recent years struggled to maintain its once-dominant presence in Nigeria’s aviation industry. The airline has, however, continued to emphasize its commitment to passenger welfare and service recovery, even as it navigates economic and operational pressures.
Observers believe that Aero’s N257 million payout underscores both the resilience of Nigerian passengers in demanding accountability and the heavy financial toll borne by domestic airlines. The development also signals the urgent need for government intervention to stabilize the aviation industry, which remains a critical driver of the economy and connectivity across the country.
